Challenge Cup Showdown: Leeds Rhinos Ready for Big Match

The Widnes Vikings are gearing up to face the Leeds Rhinos on Saturday at the DCBL Stadium. This match is part of the third round of the Betfred Challenge Cup, with kickoff scheduled for 3 PM. The Vikings aim to advance to the fourth round by overcoming the Rhinos, who hold a record of fourteen Challenge Cup victories.

Ticket and Entry Details

Tickets for the match are still available for purchase in both the North and South stands. Fans can buy tickets online or at the club shop, which opens at 9:30 AM on match day. The Vikings are also excited to offer an array of entertainment with food vendors at the ‘Viking Village’ and live music in the Bridge Suite before the match.

Squad Information

Head coach Allan Coleman has announced a 21-man squad for this weekend’s game. Mike Butt returns after missing the home opener against North Wales Crusaders due to injury. However, Joe Edge, Sam Wilde, and Nick Gregson will miss the match due to their respective injuries.

Leeds Rhinos Squad

Brad Arthur has also named his squad, which includes several first-team players and former Vikings academy player Jarrod O’Connor. The full Rhinos squad is as follows:

• Harry Newman
• Ryan Hall
• Brodie Croft
• Mikolaj Oledzki
• Jarrod O’Connor
• Tom Holroyd
• Kallum Watkins
• Cooper Jenkins
• Ethan O’Neill
• Cameron Smith
• Presley Cassell
• Riley Lumb
• Danny Levi
• Ned McCormack
• Ben Littlewood
• Tom Nicholson
• George Brown
• Fergie McCormack
• Harley Thomas
• Oscar Brown
• Jacob Stead

Player Highlights

Adam Lawton looks forward to marking his 100th appearance for Widnes. He reflects on his previous game against North Wales, bringing experience to the team’s efforts against Leeds.

Match Officials

Referee Liam Moore will oversee the match, with Alex Cameron and Gareth Jones serving as touch judges.

How to Stay Connected

Fans unable to attend the game can keep up with live updates through the official Vikings coverage on social media. Key news, match lineups, and game updates will be available, along with a live stream on the Sportsman YouTube channel.

Coach’s Insight

Coach Allan Coleman has shared his thoughts on the challenge posed by Leeds. He acknowledges their reputation as one of the best clubs in the Super League and emphasizes the need for the Vikings to embrace the intensity of the game. Coleman stated the importance of ensuring players enjoy the experience on the day.

Head-to-Head Record

This match marks the first encounter between the Vikings and the Rhinos since 2018. In their last five competitive meetings, Leeds has secured victory in three matches: